Conventional Transthoracic Echocardiography Research Articles

The Application of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Mitral Valve Repair With Tendon Reconstruction.

Objective: To investigate whether tendon reconstruction during mitral valve repair can be effectively guided by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), using the mid-esophageal bi-commissure view, bicaval view and the aortic valve–mitral valve transition short-axis view.Methods: A total of 40 patients that underwent mitral valve repair with artificial tendineae were recruited. Before the operation, conventional transthoracic echocardiography was used to determine whether mitral valve repair would be possible. Following intraoperative anesthesia, two-dimensional and three-dimensional TEE reconstructions were used to assess the state of the valve and tendon and to make a repair plan.Results: TEE accurately diagnosed single functional tendon rupture and predicted single artificial tendon implantation in 88% of cases (23/26). TEE accurately diagnosed single functional tendon rupture and predicted the implantation of two artificial tendons in 100% of cases (4/4). TEE accurately diagnosed two or more functional tendon ruptures and predicted the implantation of two artificial tendons in 100% of cases (5/5). The length of the tendon cord predicted by TEE (2.45 ± 0.15 mm) was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from the length of the cord that was actually implanted (2.31 ± 0.11 mm). TEE also accurately predicted the size of the annuloplasty ring in 86% of cases (33/38), with differences of 2 mm or less compared to the size of the ring that was actually implanted.Conclusion: Both the mid-esophageal bi-commissure view, bicaval view and the short-axis view of the aortic valve–mitral valve transition can reduce the difficulty of tendon reconstruction by helping to determine what length of tendon and what size of artificial annulus are required.

The effect of Celiac disease on cardiac functions and aortic elasticity parameters in children.

We aimed to investigate the effect of Celiac disease on myocardial functions and aortic elasticity parameters. Thirty children with Celiac disease and 30 healthy children were enrolled in the study. Both the groups were similar in terms of age and gender. Cardiac functions of all children in the patients and control group were evaluated using conventional transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging. Aortic strain, distensibility, and stiffness index were calculated by M-mode echocardiography. The demographic findings, height, weight, and body mass index of cases were similar among two groups. No statistical difference was found between E wave velocity for conventional transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging measurements of the mitral valve; early diastolic flow peak velocity, A wave velocity; late diastolic flow peak velocity; and E/A ratio. Isovolumetric relaxation time and isovolumetric contraction time ratios were statistically different between the groups (p = 0.000, p = 0.000, p = 0.000). The myocardial performance index calculated according to the pulse Doppler measurement results was found to be statistically different between the groups (p = 0.000). There was no statistical difference between the groups in terms of aortic strain, distensibility, and stiffness index. In this study, both conventional transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging revealed the affection of the myocardial functions during systole and diastole in children with Celiac disease. Therefore, early follow-up and routine cardiac evaluation of celiac patients may be appropriate due to the increased risk of cardiac affection.

Structural and functional atrial remodelling after transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale

Abstract Introduction Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common abnormality affecting more than 20% of the adult population. For most people they are accidental findings; however, in some the PFO can open widely enabling paradoxical embolisation. Randomised controlled trials have demonstrated in patients with cryptogenic stroke that transcatheter closure of PFO with a septal occluder device is associated with reduced rates of recurrent stroke. However, the impact of atrial septal closure on left atrial (LA) and right atrial (RA) structural and functional remodelling is less known. Methods We prospectively enrolled 53 patients with cryptogenic ischemic stroke and PFO eligible for transcatheter PFO closure (mean age 46±11 years, 44% females). National Institute of Health Stroke Score (NIHSS), and the modified Rankin score (mRS) were calculated as markers of clinical severity of the index stroke. Presence of any shunt, atrial volumes and functional parameters were evaluated including LA reservoir, conduit and contraction function before PFO closure and 12 months after procedure. Beyond conventional transthoracic echocardiography (Philips Epiq CVx Ultrasound), two dimensional speckle tracking method was used to assess body surface area-indexed LA maximal volume (LAVmaxi), LA minimal volume (LAVmini), LA volume before left atrial contraction (LApreAi), LA ejection fraction (LAEF), LA reservoir strain (LASres), LA conduit strain (LAScond), LA contraction strain (LAScontr), LA peak systolic strain rates (LASRs), LA peak early diastolic strain rate (LASRe) and LA peak late diastolic strain rate (LASRa) using dedicated software on separate workstation (Cardiac Performance; TomTec Imaging, Unterschleissheim, Germany). Results The index stroke was modest and non-disabling, with an NIHSS 3.37±2.63 and mRS 1.67±1.06. Baseline LA, RA volumes and dimensions were in normal range (LAVi 25.5±9.6 ml/m2; LA length 37.6±6.2 mm; LA width 40.4±7.1 mm; RA length 36.6±6.7 mm; RA width 39.5±8.6 mm). Thirty-seven patient had 12 month clinical follow-up examinations revealing no significant differences (all p values >0.05) in atrial volumes, ejection fraction and strain parameters. LASRa was significantly lower after 12 month (p=0.03; baseline LASRa −1.7±0.7 s–1 vs follow-up LASRa −1.3±0.9 s–1) No new cerebral ischaemic events, aortic erosions, atrial fibrillation, significant residual shunts or device thrombosis and displacement were recorded during the follow-up. Conclusion PFO-associated strokes in young individuals are mainly non-disabling. Our study suggests that transcatheter interatrial closure is effective without promoting unfavourable atrial anatomical remodelling during short-term follow-up, however, it may affect active atrial contraction. Long-term follow-up examinations are needed to investigate the potential late impact of occluders on atrial anatomical, functional remodelling. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Correlations between 3D mitral valve parameters and left ventricular remodeling at 6 months after ST elevation myocardial infarction: pilot study

Abstract Background Mitral valve regurgitation and LV remodeling are associated with worse prognosis in acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. 3D echocardiography provides a more accurate assessment of mitral ring and leaflet remodeling thus offering a better understanding of mitral valve (MV) and LV geometrical changes in time. Purpose We aimed to assess the echocardiographic evidence of the mitral valve geometrical changes after STEMI. Methods In this prospective study we included 30 consecutive patients aged between 35 and 68 years old, with STEMI treated by primary PCI. All underwent conventional transthoracic echocardiography. In addition to conventional parameters we measured LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and mitral valve parameters using 3D echocardiography (4D MV Assessment 2.2 software). All measuremets were performed at baseline and at 6 month follow up. LV remodeling was defined as an increase of over 15% of the LV end diastolic volume (LVEDV) at 6 months after the STEMI. Results We found significant differences in time between LVEF (39.22% vs 43.63%, p=0.00), VTDVS (116ml vs 120ml, p=0.00), LV GLS (−13.41 vs −15.52, p=0.10). LV remodeling at 6 months after STEMI has been observed in 17% of the patients. Regarding the type of the infarction, in anterior STEMI, anterior leaflet surface increased in time (from 6.44cmp vs 7.42cmp, p=0.05), while there was no significant change in posterior leaflet area. In inferior STEMI, the area of posterior mitral leaflet decreased (4.8 cmp vs 4.5 cmp, p=0.52) as well as the leaflet length (1.42 cm vs 1.19 cm p=0.003), but the anterior leaflet remained the same. At 6 months we observed significant differences between the 2 groups (with and without LV remodeling) in the following mitral valve 3D parameters: mitral annulus area (2.6 cmp vs 1.67 cmp, p=0.02), mitral circumference (2.57 cm vs 1.74 cm, p=0.021), bicomisural diameter (2.66 cm vs 2.16 cm, p=0.018), tenting area (p=0.009), anterior leaflet length (2,66 cm vs 2,015 cm p=0.018) and anterior leaflet area (3,69 cmp vs 2.49 cmp, p=0.002). Baseline LV GLS significantly correlated with the following mitral valve 3D parameters at 6 months: anterior leaflet area, posterior leaflet area, anterior leaflet length, tenting height, tenting area, mitral ring 3D area, anteroposterior and bicommissural diameters and mitral circumference (correlation coefficient >0.5). Using linear regression we proved that LV GLS can predict the shortening of the posterior MV (cut off −12.6, AUC 0.844, p=0.011) after 6 months follow up. These findings were independent of the presence and severity of mitral regurgitation. Conclusion Using 3D echocardiography, significant changes in mitral valve geometry were detected at 6 months follow up in STEMI patients. LV remodeling is associated with increased mitral annulus dimensions. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by CREDO Project - ID: 49182, financed through the SOP IEC -A2-0.2.2.1-2013-1 cofinanced by the ERDF.

Left atrial deformation in estimating left atrial pressure

Abstract Background In the absence of mitral valve disease, elevated left atrial (LA) pressure reflects reduced left ventricular (LV) compliance and raised diastolic pressures, hence an important explanation for exertional breathlessness. Methods We studied 145 symptomatic patients, age 63±14 years, 55 males, using conventional transthoracic echocardiography guidelines protocol, including LA and LV myocardial deformation investigations along with simultaneous right heart catheterization using conventional techniques. From invasive measurements, pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) were measured and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) calculated. No patient had more than mild mitral or aortic valve disease. Results LA strain rate during atrial systole (LASRa) was the strongest correlate with PCWP (r2=−0.39, p<0.001), over and above LASR during LV systole (LASRs) and peak LA longitudinal strain (PALS) (r2=−0.21 and −0.19, respectively, p<0.001 for both). Both LASRa and PALS predicted elevated PCWP >15 mmHg but only modestly (AUC= 0.55 and 0.52). The relationship between LASRa and PCWP was stronger in patients with post-capillary pulmonary hypertension compared to those with pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension (r2=0.21 vs. r2=0.02). However, the strongest relationship between LASRa and PCWP was in patients with LA volume >34 ml/m2 (r2=0.59, p<0.001, see figure) but other strain relationships did not improve after only including patients with increased LA volume. Finally, LASRa correlated modestly with the respective LVSRa (r=0.53, P<0.01), and to lesser extent with other cavity interaction correlations (r=0.26–0.48, p<0.01). Conclusion Despite being somehow related to ventricular function, left atrial strain rate during atrial contraction is the closest correlate to PCWP, particularly in patients with dilated LA cavity. These data should be of significant clinical value in daily management of symptomatic patients. LASRaecho and PCWPrhc in patients with d Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Feasibility of evaluating the left ventricular function in patients with cardiovascular diseases by fully automatic quantified three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of left ventricular function assessment in patients with cardiovascular disease by fully automatic quantified three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography. Methods: One hundred and ninety-seven patients with cardiac diseases were examined by three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography from September 2017 to May 2019. Data from 61 patients with grade 1 echocardiographic image quality were used to determine the default boundary values of endocardial end-diastolic and end-systolic phases. Clinical features were analyzed based on electronic medical records. The accuracy and repeatability of this strategy was evaluated by comparing left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), end-systolic volume (LVESV) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) measured by automated quantitative three-dimensional echocardiography and those measured by conventional manual transthoracic echocardiography, the latter served as gold standard. Results: The levels of LVEDV, LVESV and LVEF measured by automatic three-dimensional echocardiography were positively correlated with values obtained by manual measurement（r=0.97，0.97, 0.98, 0.97, 0.97, 0.96；P<0.05). The levels of LVEDV and LVESV measured by full-automatic three-dimensional echocardiography were significantly higher than those obtained by manual three-dimensional echocardiography（all P<0.05）. The classification and correlation of systolic dysfunction in patients with abnormal ventricular wall motion by automatic three-dimensional echocardiography were significantly improved after manual calibration (κ=0.74, P=0.00) as compared to without manual calibration (κ=0.63, P=0.00). The inter-observer and intra-observer variability of fully automated three-dimensional echocardiography were significantly smaller than manual three-dimensional echocardiography（both P<0.05）. Conclusion: Fully automatic quantified three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography possesses excellent accuracy and repeatability in measuring left ventricular volume and function， and it is feasible for clinical application.

Risk factors for right ventricular dysfunction in patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis.

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare disease characterized by diffuse cystic lesions of the lung. The present study was designed to evaluate the right ventricular (RV) function in LAM patients via single-beat real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT-3DE) and to investigate the factors affecting RV function in LAM patients. According to tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TRV), forty-five female LAM patients [(44.07 ± 10.22) years old] were divided into TRV ≤ 2.8m/s group (n = 29) and TRV > 2.8m/s group (n = 16). Relative echocardiography parameters were assessed by conventional transthoracic echocardiography, Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) and RT-3DE, respectively. Pulmonary function tests and the six-minute walk tests (SMWT) were also performed for LAM patients. We found that most of RV functional parameters in LAM patients were worse than that in control patients, although left ventricular dysfunction was not significantly observed. Correlation analysis showed that 3D echocardiographic RV ejection fraction (RVEF) was negatively correlated with pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), TRV, and the decrease of oxygen saturation (SpO2) post SMWT, and positively correlated with Forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity, carbon monoxide diffusion predicted value, SMWT distance, and resting SpO2 in LAM patients. Multivariate stepwise linear regression analysis showed that PVR and SpO2 before SMWT were independent influence factors of RVEF in LAM patients. In this study, we found that RV dysfunction was presented in LAM patients, although left ventricular dysfunction was not significantly obvious. The main influence factors of RVEF were PVR and hypoxia. RT-3DE is a low-cost and noninvasive way to evaluate RV function in LAM patients.

ASSESSMENT OF MYOCARDIAL VIABILITY USING LOW DOSE DOBUTAMINE THREE DIMENSIONAL SPECKLE TRACKING STRESS TRANSTHORACIC ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

Background: Three-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3D STE) is used recently to assess many cardiac diseases; it is considered as natural growth of two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D STE). The LV mechanics is in nature a 3D phenomenon and its accurate assessment requires a 3D imaging method. 3DSTE has been implemented for measuring 3D strain, and has emerged as a more physiologically sound tool for analyzing the complexity of LV mechanics, overcoming the inherent limitations of 2D STE. Objective: To determine the relative accuracy of area strain measured by 3D speckle-tracking echocardiography combined with low dose dobutamine for the detection of myocardial viability before coronary revascularization in comparison with MPI. Patients and Methods: The study included 40 patients referred to Bab El-She’riya University Hospital nuclear lab for assessment of myocardial viability by MPI before coronary revascularization. Then all patients were referred to Islamic Cardiac Center Echo lab where complete conventional transthoracic echocardiography was done followed by Low dose dobutamine (LDD) stress transthoracic echocardiography with 3D STE then comparing results of 3D strain of viable segments with that of nonviable segments and with corresponding segments in MPI studies. Results: The study showed that 241 segments in the 40 patients were assigned as abnormal segments, 114 were viable and 127 were nonviable, resting area strain (AS)was -18.7±2.5 for viable segments comparing to -12.6±5.3 for non-viable segment. A cut-off point of -16 was chosen to differentiate viable segments from non-viable ones with sensitivity 80.75% and specificity 83.1%. The average LDD AS value for viable segments was-24.5±2.7 and was -15.2±4.8 of non-viable segments with a cut-off point of -24 to differentiate viable segments from non-viable ones with sensitivity of 84.75% and a specificity of 89.1%. The average increase of AS of viable segments after LDD was -5.8±2.3 with a cut-off point to detect viability was a -0.24 increase in LDD from resting AS with a sensitivity of 95.75% and a specificity of 98.1%. Conclusion: AS obtained from 3D STE may be used clinically as an indicator to detect myocardial viability with higher sensitivity and specificity when combined with LDD.

Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography detected interventricular dyssynchrony predicts exercise capacity and disease severity in pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension.

BackgroundRight ventricular (RV) intraventricular mechanical dyssynchrony detected by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) has been reported to be correlated with a decrease in RV contractile efficiency in pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients, while little attention has been paid to biventricular dysfunction. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of 2D-STE detected interventricular dyssynchrony for exercise capacity and disease severity in patients with pre-capillary PH (PcPH).MethodsConventional transthoracic echocardiography, 2D-STE and cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPETs) were performed in all participants. Intra- and interventricular dyssynchrony were calculated as the standard deviation (SD) of the time intervals corrected for heart rate between QRS onset and peak longitudinal strain. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of peak oxygen consumption (PVO2) during the CPET. Multivariable logistical regression modeling was used to analyze the associations between interventricular dyssynchrony and risk assessment.ResultsSixty-six PcPH patients were consecutively recruited (19 male and 47 female, average 35 years old). WHO functional class, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and body mass index were included as independent predictors in the first multivariate regression analysis of clinical data without echocardiographic parameters (Model-1, r2=0.423, P<0.001). We subsequently added conventional echocardiographic parameters and 2D-STE parameters to the clinical data, RV fractional area change (Model-2, r2=0.417, P<0.001), RV global longitudinal strain (Model-3, r2=0.454, P=0.001), RV intraventricular dyssynchrony (Model-4: r2=0.474, P<0.001) and interventricular dyssynchrony (Model-5, r2=0.483, P<0.001) were identified as independent predictors of PVO2. Interventricular dyssynchrony, calculated as the SD of the time intervals of nine segments, was independently associated with risk assessment (odd ratio 1.027, 95% CI: 1.003–1.052, P=0.03). The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.73 (P<0.001).ConclusionsInterventricular dyssynchrony detected by 2D-STE contributed to a better evaluation of exercise capacity and disease severity in PcPH patients.

Validation of Semiautomated Quantification of Mitral Valve Regurgitation by Three-Dimensional Color Doppler Transesophageal Echocardiography

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of mitral regurgitation (MR) volume quantified on three-dimensional (3D) color Doppler transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) using new semiautomated software compared with conventional two-dimensional (2D) proximal isovelocity surface area (PISA) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and TEE and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). Fifty-one patients (mean age, 63±16years; 35 men) prospectively underwent TTE, TEE, and CMR for MR evaluation. Regurgitant volume (RVol) by 3D MR flow quantification was compared with 2D TTE, TEE, and CMR, and the accuracy of evaluation of severe MR by 3D MR flow quantification was compared against guideline criteria by TEE. Twenty-nine patients had severe MR, 16 had moderate MR, and six had mild MR. Three-dimensional MR flow quantification was feasible in all patients, including prolapse (n=37), restriction (n=9), functional MR (n=5), and eccentric or multiple jects (n=41). RVol on 3D MR flow quantification correlated well with RVol on 2D PISA TTE (interclass correlation coefficient [ICC]=0.75, P<.001), quantitatively estimated RVol (ICC=0.74, P<.001), and 2D PISA TEE (ICC=0.79, P<.001). Three-dimensional MR flow quantification agreed better with CMR (ICC=0.86, P<.001) than did RVol on 2D PISA TTE (ICC=0.66, P<.001) and 2D PISA TEE (ICC=0.69, P<.001), with narrower limits of agreement on Bland-Altman analysis. Three-dimensional MR flow quantification had high accuracy for diagnosing severe MR using TEE (area under the curve=0.85, 95% CI 0.74-0.96, P<.001) or CMR (area under the curve=0.95; 95% CI, 0.89-1.00; P<.001) as the criterion. The new software enabled semiautomated 3D MR flow quantification in complex MR with multiple and eccentric jets and showed better agreement with CMR than 2D PISA TTE or TEE, suggesting that this method is more accurate than conventional 2D PISA TTE and TEE.

Clinical diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in the diagnosis of cardiac masses: A pilot study.

To assess the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of suspected cardiac masses by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and to evaluate its usefulness. Twenty-eight adult patients with suspected cardiac masses were selected for this study. All of them were examined by conventional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and CEUS. The location, attachment point, basement, morphology, size, boundary, internal echo, shape change, range of motion, length, area, effect on hemodynamics, and peak enhancement of the masses (A1), and adjacent normal myocardium (A2) were measured. Then, the A1 to A2 ratio was calculated and the above parameters were analyzed. The benign lesions showed regular morphology and clear-boundary uniform enhancement of the contrast agent. Malignant lesions showed an irregular shape, unclear boundary with surrounding tissue, and uneven enhancement of the contrast agent. The normal myocardial perfusion intensity was the same; there was no enhancement inside a simple thrombus, and the A1 of the benign lesion was lower than that of the normal myocardium (mean value [dB]±SD, 0.63±0.42); the A2 of the malignant lesion was higher than that of the normal myocardium (mean value [dB]±SD, 1.49±0.09). The difference in the ratio of A1 to A2 between groups was statistically significant (P<.05). Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography can assess the basic biological characteristics and properties of cardiac masses and has a high diagnostic accuracy for differentiation of a thrombus from a tumor or a benign tumor from a malignant tumor.

P1526 Updated prevalence of lambls excrescences using the latest three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography

Abstract Background Lambl’s excrescences (LEs), filiform strands that occur at sites of cardiac valves, have been suggested the cause cryptogenic stroke. The diagnosis is primarily based upon the echocardiographic study, but conventional two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography has limitation to detect such as small strands. Latest three dimensional-transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) have high-resolution images with many slices, so small structures are able to be clearly visible and detected. Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of LEs using the latest 3D-TEE images. Methods We retrospectively reviewed consecutive 140 patients who underwent 3D-TEE from November 2018 to May 2019. Forty-seven patients were excluded due to unmeasurable, such as mitral valve prolapse, severe aortic stenosis, prosthetic valves and poor-quality images. We carefully evaluated the mitral and aortic valve leaflets in order to find mobile string structure (diameter &amp;lt;1 mm and length 1–20 mm) in each cardiac cycle. Total analyzed images were over 50 slices per one patient. Results Among 93 patients, 83 patients (89%) was detected the presence of LEs. No difference in age and gender were found between patients with LEs and patients without LEs. Of the total 83 patients, there were 35 patients with strands on mitral valve, 32 patients with strands on aortic valve, and 16 patients with strands on both valves. Distribution of LEs at each valve leaflet were shown in Figure. Right coronary cusp of aortic valve (42%) and P2 of mitral valve (35%) were high prevalence among leaflets. Conclusions 3D-TEE provides an update prevalence of LEs. The prevalence of LEs might be potentially high in the real world. Abstract P1526 Figure.

P323 Early measurement of left ventricular global longitudinal strain and mechanical dispersion predict left ventricular remodeling at 5 year follow up after STEMI: pilot study

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements This work was supported by CREDO Project - ID: 49182, financed through the SOP IEC -A2-0.2.2.1-2013-1 cofinanced by the ERDF. Background Left ventricule (LV) function plays an important role in the pathophysiology of decompensation after acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). LV remodeling (LVR) after STEMI is associated with development of heart failure, predicting poor clinical outcome therefore its identification is of clinical importance to set up preventive strategies. Prediction of the left ventricular remodeling (LVR) after STEMI in patients treated by primary PCI is challenging. Purpose Finding an echocardiographic parameter that can predict left ventricular remodeling in time after STEMI. Materials and methods In this prospective study we included 30 consecutive patients, median age 60 (37-79), 76% male, with STEMI treated by primary PCI. We performed conventional 2D transthoracic echocardiography for all included patients. In addition to conventional parameters we measured LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and LV mechanical dispersion using 2D speckle tracking imaging technique. For morphological and functional analysis of LV we used 3D echocardiography (volumes, LVEF) considering its superiority in assessment of LV. All measurements were performed at baseline (up to 7 days after STEMI) and at 5 year follow up. LVR was defined as an increase of over 15% of the LV end diastolic volume (LVEDV) in time, at 5 years after the STEMI. Results We obtained significant differences in time (up to 7 days after STEMI vs at 5 years) between 3D LVEF (46,48 vs 51,68, p = 0.002), LVEDV (97,12 vs 107,76, p = 0.000), 2D global strain (-11.76 vs - 14,1, p = 0.00), and mechanical dispersion (65,06 vs 57,66, p = 0.00) in all patients. LV remodeling at 5 years (15% increase in LVEDV) was observed in 36,6% of the included patients. At 5 years follow up, LVEDV mean value in the remodeling group was 130 ml and in the no remodeling group 90,21 ml (p = 0.002), 3D LVEF was 48,18 vs 54,42 (p = 0.05), global strain was - 12,33 vs -15,35 (p = 0.02) and LV mechanical dispersion 66,27 vs 55,55 (p = 0.05). Therefore patients with LV remodeling in time had lower LVEF, lower global strain and higher LV mechanical dispersion at baseline. Using ROC analysis we identified two cut off values, one of -11.55 for global LV strain measured at baseline (Sb 81.8%, Sp 77%, AUC 0.776, CI 95%, p = 0.022) and the other one of 63.7 for LV mechanical dispersion at admission (Sb 72,7%, Sp 62%, AUC 0.734, p 0.05) to discriminate between patients with or without LV adverse remodeling at 5 years after STEMI. We also found, using regression analysis, that GLS and LV mechanical dispersion are able to predict LV remodeling in time. Conclusion Global longitudinal strain and left ventricular mechanical dispersion measured in the acute phase can predict which patient is likely to undergo LV remodeling at 5 years after STEMI. GLS and LV dispersion could be used as predictors for future LV adverse remodeling after STEMI. Larger scale studies are needed to validate these findings.

P1387 Correlations between left atrial strain parameters and left ventricular function in young patients presenting with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements This work was supported by CREDO Project - ID: 49182, financed through the SOP IEC -A2-0.2.2.1-2013-1 cofinanced by the ERDF Background Previous studies demonstrated the role of left atrial (LA) deformation parameters in characterisation of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. It is a marker of the severity of diastolic dysfunction; LA remodelling also proved to be a predictor of clinical outcome, therefore a prognostic marker in acute coronary syndromes. Purpose In this study we aimed to investigate the correlations between left atrial strain and conventional systolic and diastolic dysfunction parameters in a cohort of young patients with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated by primary PCI. Material and methods We included 56 consecutive patients in this study: 46 patients under 50 years of age with STEMI and 10 healthy age and sex matched controls. We performed conventional transthoracic echocardiography for all included patients. In addition to conventional echocardiographic parameters, LA strain curves were obtained for each patient using two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging with measurement LA deformation parameters. Results LV ejection fraction, LV global strain and peak LA systolic strain (PALS) were significantly reduced in STEMI patients compared to controls. PALS had significant correlation with 2D LVEF (p = 0.00), LV global longitudinal strain (p = 0.03), E wave (p &amp;lt; 0.05), E/e’ (p &amp;lt; 0.05), left atrial volume and the type of diastolic dysfunction (p = 0.06). PALS also had inversre correlation with the presence of an occluded coronary artery at angiography. PALS was higher in control group than in STEMI group ( 34.6 vs 20.4, p &amp;lt; 0.05). PALS values progressively decreased with worsening of LV diastolic dysfunction showing significant differences between all diastolic dysfunction grades. Using ROC (Receiver operating Characteristics) analysis we identified a cut off value of 25.9 (Sensibility 88%, Specificity 74%, AUC 0.94, CI 95%, p &amp;lt; 0.05) to discriminate between diastolic dysfunction and normal diastolic function. Moreover, PALS was significantly different in patients with normal vs high LV filling pressures. Using ROC analysis we determined a cut off value of 14.5 for LA peak systolic strain to discriminate between the two subgroups, with excellent discrimination power, AUC 0.935, CI 95%, p = 0.045, Sensibility 100%, Specificity 91%. Therefore LA peak systolic strain could be considered a surrogate estimate of LV filling pressures. Conclusion LA peak systolic strain correlated significantly with LV systolic and diastolic function in young patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with primary PCI. Peak LA strain may be helpful as a complementary method to evaluate diastolic dysfunction in this patient population and may also improve the detection of elevated LV filling pressures.

P324 Left atrial deformation analysis by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography in liver cirrhosis is a potential new tool for a better characterization of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements “This work was supported by a grant of Ministery of Research and Innovation, CNCS-UEFISCDI, project number PN-III-P1-1-TE-2016-0669, within PNCDI III” Background Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is defined as a cardiac dysfunction that includes mainly diastolic dysfunction (DD), generated by liver cirrhosis (LC). Its present diagnosis is based mostly on 2D conventional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), with focus on diastolic dysfunction. However, there is no standardized algorithm for diagnosis of CCM. Role of the new methods, such as speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), for the diagnosis of CCM is still controversial. Aim. To assess left atrial (LA) function by STE in LC, on top of conventional TTE, in order to establish role of LA function for the diagnosis of CCM. Methods 107 subjects were assessed by TTE and STE: 52 patients with LC (57 ± 9 yrs, 23 males), free of any cardiovascular disease or diabetes, and 55 age-matched normal subjects. TTE was used to measure LV indexed volumes and ejection fraction (LVEF), E/E’ ratio, left atrial volume index (LAVi), and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP); STE to measure global longitudinal strain (GLS) and LA functions: reservoir function by strain from MVC to MVO (LASr) and positive strain rate (LASRr), conduit function by strain from MVO to onset of atrial contraction (LAScd) and early negative strain rate during conduit phase (LASRcd), LA pump function by negative strain at MVC (LASct) and late negative strain rate during atrial contraction phase (LASRct) (Figure). NTproBNP was measured in all patients. Results LC patients vs. controls had lower SBP (112 ± 15 vs. 122 ± 12, P &amp;lt; 0.001), higher LV volumes and NTproBNP, but similar LVEF. They had lower GLS, and higher E/E’, LAVi, and sPAP, suggesting higher LV filling pressure (Table). Meanwhile, they had lower LA reservoir, conduit, and pump functions(Table). By using current algorithm for the diagnosis of DD, 21% of LC patients had DD, 48% had no DD, and 31% had indeterminate grade. By adding assessment of LA reservoir function by STE (LASr &amp;lt; 35%) to the DD algorithm, 50% of patients had DD, without any indeterminate cases. Conclusion LC patients have longitudinal systolic LV dysfunction, diastolic dysfunction with higher estimated LV filling pressure, and lower LA reservoir, conduit, and pump functions. By adding LA deformation analysis by STE to the current diagnosis algorithm, better characterization of CCM is possible. Table Group (N) NTproBNP ng/ml GLS (%) E/E’ LAVi (ml/m2) sPAP (mmHg) LASr (%) LASRr LAScd (%) LASRcd LASRct LC (52) 215 ± 258 -20.8 ± 3 8.5 ± 2.3 44 ± 14 27 ± 9 28 ± 9 1.29 ± 0.4 14.7 ± 8.1 -1.2 ± 0.42 -1.64 ± 0.47 Controls (55) 44 ± 43 -22 ± 2 7.6 ±2.3 28 ±6.5 21 ± 8 35 ± 4 1.54 ± 0.4 18.3 ± 6.7 -1.7 ± 0.61 -1.93 ± 0.44 P value &amp;lt;0.001 0.05 0.05 0.001 0.003 0.011 0.002 0.014 0.001 0.002 Abstract P324 Figure

Evaluation of left ventricular systolic function by Myocardial Deformation Imaging in asymptomatic HIV patients

Background and Aims: Despite improvements in clinical care, evidence from both industrialized and developing countries indicates that the prevalence of subclinical cardiac dysfunction in individuals with well-controlled HIV infection may approach 50% and represent a newly recognized comorbid condition. The aim of our study was to reveal abnormalities in cardiac function using conventional transthoracic echocardiography and left ventricular strain imaging in HIV infected patients without cardiovascular disease.&#x0D; Methods: This was a hospital based, single center descriptive cross-sectional comparative study conducted in National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), Bir Hospital which included HIV patients with baseline examination including a patient medical history, clinical examination, baseline CD4 count, viral load and a standardized transthoracic echocardiography and strain imaging examination and the findings were compared among age and sex frequency matched healthy adult population.&#x0D; Results: Our study enrolled 142 patients out of which 95 HIV positive patients (mean age 36.7±9.2 years with 58% female) and 47 healthy control (mean age 33.7±8 years with 57.4% female). The median duration of HIV diagnosis was 7 years (IQR 2, 10) and median CD4 count was 464 cells/mm3 (IQR 259,750). There was no significant difference in conventional echocardiographic parameters between two groups except for transmitral E velocity that was lower in HIV group (P value of 0.001). The HIV population has lower mean global longitudinal strain (GLS) value of -19.92% ± 2.54 SD compared to the healthy control population with mean of -21.39% ± 1.54 SD(P value of 0.001) and patients with CD4 count less than 300 cell/mm3 had GLS value significantly lower than -18% (P value of 0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: HIV infected population without established cardiovascular disease have subclinical left ventricular dysfunction revealed by GLS imaging technique.

P2598Left atrial mechanics in patients with acute pulmonary edema and preserved ejection fraction

Abstract Background The left atrium (LA) is a highly dynamic chamber that has 3 mechanical functions (reservoir, conduit, booster pump), as well as additional endocrine and regulatory properties. It is a marker of both the severity and chronicity of diastolic dysfunction and its remodelling has been shown to be a reliable predictor of clinical outcome in patients with heart disease. While LA function has been extensively studied in chronic heart failure, information about LA mechanics in patients with acute heart failure and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) are scarce. Purpose We sought to assess LA mechanics in a cohort of patients with acute pulmonary edema and preserved EF and compare it with a normal reference group. Methods We included 50 consecutive patients (22 men) with acute pulmonary edema, preserved EF and sinus rhythm in our study. Patients with significant mitral or aortic valve disease were not considered eligible. The control group consisted of 30 subjects (18 men) with no previous cardiovascular disease. We performed conventional transthoracic echocardiography for all patients and we assessed various parameters of LA mechanics. To evaluate the reservoir function, we determined the total ejection volume (EV), the total EF, the LA expansion index (LAEI) and the LA function index (LAFI). To evaluate the conduit function, we determined the passive EV and passive EF. For the booster pump function, we determined the active EV, active EF, the atrial filling fraction, the ejection force and the LA kinetic energy (LAKE). We used T-test to compare the parameters between the two groups. Results The mean age in the study group was 72±14 years, while in the control group the mean age was 56±16 years (p=0.06). The total EV did not differ significantly between groups (p=0.44). The total LA ejection fraction was lower in the study group: 29±10% vs. 51±9% (p&lt;0.001), as well as the LAEI (45.1±24.6 vs. 110.9±32.1, p&lt;0.001) and the LAFI (0.17±0.12 vs. 0.58±0.20, p&lt;0.001). Among parameters assessing LA conduit function, there were no differences in passive EV (p=0.64), but passive LA ejection fraction was significantly lower in the study group: 15±7% vs. 28±11%, p=0.003. The same trend was noted for active LA ejection fraction (16±10% vs. 31±13%, p=0.005). The ejection force was impaired in the study group: 39.1±30.6 kdynes vs. 15.2±12.3 kdynes, p&lt;0.001. Other parameters evaluating LA booster pump function did not differ significantly between groups (p=0.12 for atrial filling fraction, p=0.74 for LAKE). Conclusion All three integrated phases of left atrial mechanics (reservoir, conduit, booster pump) are impaired in patients with acute pulmonary edema and preserved left ventricular EF. These findings highlight the importance of diastolic dysfunction in the pathogenesis of acute heart failure for these patients and they suggest that LA dysfunction might be a potential therapeutic target in this clinical setting. Acknowledgement/Funding This work was supported by CREDO Project - ID: 49182, financed through the SOP IEC-A2-0.2.2.1-2013-1 cofinanced by the ERDF

Multi-modality cardiac imaging in advanced chronic kidney disease.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide and is particularly frequent among those with severe renal impairment. Early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention may help alleviate the burden of cardiovascular complication within this population. In the last years, advances have been made toward developing noninvasive imaging techniques that could offer better insight into the cardiac involvement in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Conventional transthoracic echocardiography remains the first-line investigation used to assess cardiac function, but encompassing in our daily practice, the newer approaches such as speckle-tracking imaging, cardiac computed tomography, or cardiac magnetic resonance can guide us to a more comprehensive understanding of CVD in ESRD. Given that patients with chronic kidney disease may not present with typical CVD symptoms, the amount of information brought by newer imaging techniques is crucial for an accurate diagnosis, risk stratification, and further management. The purpose of this review is to briefly summarize the specific applications of standard cardiac imaging techniques in patients with ESRD and to offer insight into the novel imaging modalities, highlighting the newest research in this field. By doing so, we aim to identify the most important imaging predictors of clinical outcomes in this population.

Value of Two-Dimensional Strain Imaging in Prediction of Myocardial Function Recovery After Percutaneous Revascularization of Infarct-Related Artery

Background: Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is often accompanied by impaired regional myocardial systolic function. A novel approach known as two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography was used to quantify regional LV function. Objective: The aim of the current study was to evaluate of the role of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in prediction of left ventricular function recovery after percutaneous coronary intervention to left anterior descending coronary artery in patients with anterior ST segment elevation myocardial infarction with impaired left ventricular ejection fraction. Patients and methods: This study included 50 patients and 15 normal control adult persons. Patients had suffered from first attack of anterior STEMI. They were admitted at the CCU units of Al-Azhar University Hospitals from September 2016 to September 2018 and treated with thrombolytic therapy. Each patient was subjected to conventional transthoracic echocardiography before hospital discharge and before reperfusion. Speckle tracking echocardiography and resting SPECT were done one week after MI. Percutaneous coronary intervention to LAD within one week after MI for patients with demonstrated myocardial viability by resting SPECT. Three months after percutaneous revascularization to LAD, all patients were reevaluated using conventional TTE and strain imaging. The studied population were divided into 2 Groups; group A: 24 patients who showed post-PCI LV function recovery and Group B: 26 patients who did not showed post-PCI LV function recovery. Results: There was statistically significant increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, smoking and dyslipidemia in group B. There was high statistically significant difference between the two groups as regard baseline LVEF (%), baseline wall motion score index (WMSI), mean baseline and follow up WMSI values, baseline number of affected left anterior descending (LAD) segments as assessed by WMSI, baseline and 90 days follow up mean number of affected LAD segments, baseline strain values at both global LV and territorial LAD segments. Control group showed mean territorial LAD strain was - 20.41± 0.61, mean baseline territorial LAD strain of group (A) - 13.20 ± 2.05 and mean baseline territorial LAD strain of group (B) - 8.47 ± 2.12. Regarding mean baseline territorial LAD strain and mean GLS of the LV, Receiver Operating Characteristic curve was done between group A and B for obtaining a cut off value of – 11.3 % and – 11.8 % respectively. Conclusion: LV global and territorial strain measured by 2D STE is a good predictor of LV function recovery in STEMI patients after percutaneous revascularization of infarct–related artery.

The Value of Speckle Tracking Strain Imaging at Recovery Period of Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography

Background: Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) is a well-established method for detecting myocardial ischemia. The classic echocardiographic findings of ischemia are new or worsening abnormalities of radial wall thickening. However, interpretation of these findings is subjective and dependent on experience. Speckle tracking strain imaging (STI) has been introduced as a novel method to overcome these limitations. Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate the value of speckle tracking imaging (STI) by estimating the mean global longitudinal systolic (GLS) and the mean global circumferential systolic (GCS) strain imaging at recovery period of dobutamine stress echocardiography for prediction of significant coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with chest discomfort. Methods: Fifty three patients presented for evaluation of chest discomfort underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography and coronary angiography at Cardiology Department,Menoufia University Hospital. The mean global left ventricular longitudinal systolic strain (GLS) at apical views—3 chambers, 4 chambers & 2 chambers apical views and global left ventricular circumferential systolic strain (GCS) at short axis view at level of papillary muscle were measured at rest and during recovery period of dobutamine stress echocardiography using automated functional imaging (AFI). Coronary angiography was done for all patients. Significant coronary artery lesion was defined as having a ≥ 70% diameter stenosis on coronary angiography. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of significant coronary artery lesion into CAD positive (+ve) group vs. CAD negative (-ve) group. Results: In both groups,there were no statistically significant differences in the clinical characteristics and baseline conventional transthoracic echocardiography. GLS and GSC at recovery were lower in the CAD (+ve) group than in the CAD (-ve) group (-16.69% ± 1.10% vs -19.05% ± 1.41% p ). GLS and GCS during recovery period of DSE were valuable for prediction of CAD when cutoff at recovery is less than -17.95% (sensitivity of 84% & specificity of 84%) for GLS and less than -20.2% (sensitivity of 76% & specificity of 84%) for GCS. Also, we observed that the GLS and GCS percentile decreased from baseline to recovery period of DSE by about -9.95% ± 4.82% and -7.72% ± 3.90% respectively. Conclusion: Speckle tracking Imaging GLS and GCS at recovery period of Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography is feasible and offers an objective technique for prediction of significant coronary artery disease with increasing the accuracy of DSE in patient with chest discomfort.